# Retinol-Free Smoothing Serums The Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum is Non-Irritating By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2019-07-02 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retinol-alternative References: [popsugar](https://www.popsugar.com/beauty/Best-Skincare-Products-July-2019-46334923?stream_view=1#photo-46334932) & [herbivorebotanicals](https://www.herbivorebotanicals.com/products/bakuchiol-retinol-alternative-serum) Retinol can be found in a myriad of anti-aging products but many consumers with sensitive skin or other conditions prefer to avoid it due to the irritation that the potent ingredient can cause—fortunately, bakuchiol has emerged as an all-natural [retinol alternative](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/olivier-midy) in many products. The Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum is a skincare product that boasts a rare purple hue that comes from the Ayurvedic Babchi plant's flower. The [retinol-free product](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nuxuriance-ultra) powered by bakuchiol is effective for targeting dullness, uneven texture, [fine lines and wrinkles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/a-renewal), as well as dryness. According to Herbivore, the jelly-like water-based serum is "gentle enough for the most sensitive skin types, and even pregnant women." Some of the other ingredients in the unscented formula include anti-inflammatory turmeric, two types of basil and eggplant extracts. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.3/10 - Popularity: 25% | Activity: 67% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 10% men, 90% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Cosmetics](https://www.trendhunter.com/cosmetics) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Bakuchiol Alternatives:** The rise of all-natural retinol alternatives like bakuchiol creates opportunities for companies to develop innovative skincare products that cater to consumers concerned with avoiding potential skin irritation. - **Sensitive Skin Solutions:** The increasing demand for retinol-free skin smoothing serums and other skincare products creates opportunities for companies to develop specialized solutions for consumers with sensitive skin. - **Plant-based Ingredients:** The use of plant-based ingredients like Ayurvedic Babchi plant in serums and other skincare products is a growing trend, creating opportunities for companies to develop new natural skincare offerings that appeal to eco-conscious consumers. ### Who This Affects Most - **Skincare Industry:** The skincare industry can take advantage of the trend toward retinol alternatives by developing innovative skincare products that suit the needs of consumers concerned with potential skin irritation. - **Personal Care Industry:** Companies in the personal care industry can offer solutions for those with sensitive skin by providing retinol-free alternatives to popular skincare products. - **Plant-based Cosmetics Industry:** Companies in the plant-based cosmetics industry can leverage the trend towards natural skincare products by developing new natural skincare offerings made from unique plant-based ingredients. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Plant-Based Retinol Alternatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bakuchiol-plumping-capsule-cream.md) - [Retinol Alternative Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lotus-aroma-face-oil.md) - [Alternative Prejuvenation Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pro-youth-dark-spot-serum.md) - [Active-Packed Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/serum-a-serum.md) - [Gentle Skin-Enhancing Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beauty-pies-youthbomb.md) - [Bio-Retinol Face Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/revive-bioretinol-face-serum.md) - [Gentle Multi-Action Moisturizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clear-confidence-moisturizer.md) - [Smoothing Skincare Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smoothing-bakuchiol-serum.md) - [Organic Retinol Serums](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/organic-retinol.md)